People Power Skills: Social Emotional Learning

The People Power skills we practice as part of our social curriculum in the Lower School are helpful in several ways. The children seem empowered to take better care of themselves and others. They use the People Power language to ask for what they need and to get help. They can often recognize and name behaviors that make them feel both cared for and hurt. It is rewarding to see the students grow their “People Power” skills and practice being the best friends they can be.

Stepping Up

• Raise your hand more often to share your ideas

• Speak up when people are being mistreated

Stepping Down

• Let other people lead sometimes

• Give everyone a chance to think up their own answer

Turning Towards

• Notice when people are asking for your attention

• Use your eyes, shoulders and your voice to show people that you care

Matching

• Watch and listen before joining a group

• Join in a way that matches the group’s volume, mood and style

Calm Tone

• Use a calm tone even when you feel excited

• Use a calm tone even when you are working through conflict

Shop Talk

• Keep your partner talk on the school subject (math, reading etc.)

Polite Points

• Ask before you reach

• Use “please” and “thank you” with everyone

• Say “excuse me” in a kind tone when you need space

Bouncing Back

• Let go of a conflict after you have talked it over

• Lift your mood by focusing on something new after a disappointment

Bending

• Stop when someone respectfully asks you to stop

• Play games with each friend in the way they want to be played with

Sweet Talk

• Speak kindly to others

• Say things that make others feel cared for

New Connections

• Invite a new friend to play during choice or recess

• Sit and talk with someone new during snack or lunch

Mood Detector

• Notice people’s body language and facial expressions

• Take action based on people’s mood

Jumping In

• Use a strong, clear voice when you ask to join a new game

Question Help

• Use a question to check in with a friend when you think they might be making a mistake

Eye Contact

• Keep your eyes on the person speaking

• Use eye contact with everyone

Repairing

• Explain your role in accidents or not-ok behavior

• Show you understandhow other people feel

• Take action to repairyour mistake

Cheerleading

• Offer sincere and specific compliments to everyone, especially when someone seems to be having a hard time